Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) – new therapy options

Abstract

Myelodysplastic syndromes are heterogeneous clonal disorders of hematopoietic stem cells. The strategy of the treatment must be based on prognostic scoring systems (IPSS, WPSS, comorbidities). For lower risk group MDS patients, transfusion dependent, erythropoietic stimulating agents are first option of treatment. In this group of patients also the first-line option are lenalidomide and immunosuppressive drugs. In IPSS higher-risk MDS patients the role of allogeneic stem cell transplantation is well-established. In older patients of this group the option of treatment are hypomethylating agents. Iron chelation treatment is proposed for patients with ironoverload. All group of patients should be under supportive care.